Fort Atkinson Community Placemaking Initiative Proceedings Report Workshop 1

Transcription

1 Fort Atkinson Community Placemaking Initiative Proceedings Report Workshop 1 December 3, 2015 Participants Chris Buckingham-Taylor Walt Christensen Cole Hebbe Jude Hartwick Roy Budlong Paul Christensen Mason Becker Lydia Statz Maggie Mielke Megan Findlay Tom Kulczewski Mike Foerster Jeff Armstrong Bruce Waller E. Bus Rudy Bushcott Andy Selle Matt Loup Maria Lomea Carrie Chisholm Beth Gerard Chris Scherer Anna Everson Andy Yocom Merrilee Lee Leslie LaMuro Jim Nelson Paul Kotz Kelly Turkerrst Ann Engelman Matt Trebatoski Facilitated and Compiled By: Steve Grabow, Professor and Community Development Educator University of Wisconsin-Extension, Jefferson County Office January 14, 2016

2 Table of Contents Page Section 1: Background, Workshop Objectives and Presentation... 1 Section 2: Assessment Activity and Facilitated Findings... 2 Section 3: Assessment Tool Compiled Findings... 6 Appendix: Agenda Community Assessment and Evaluation Activity: Assessment Tool Principles of Community Placemaking & Making Places Special Presentation... 36

3 Section 1 BACKGROUND, WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES AND PRESENTATION An overview of the Fort Atkinson Community Placemaking Initiative was provided by the City Council President and the City Manager. The facilitator presented the additional context about the project along with the following Workshop 1 objectives: To raise community awareness around principles of community placemaking. To assess the extent to which principles of placemaking are evident in Fort Atkinson. (All should have a copy of the Community Assessment and Evaluation Activity tool). (See Appendix for a sample of the tool.) To initiate broad community dialogue around placemaking. The facilitator provided a presentation on the Principles of Community Placemaking. Please refer to the appendix for the actual PowerPoint presentation. 1

4 Section 2 ASSESSMENT ACTIVITY AND FACILITATED FINDINGS The facilitator distributed the assessment tool and had participants complete the tool on their own. Once completed, participants then discussed their responses with their neighbor in small groups. During this time they were to: Identify those principles that you have rated as strengths or strongly evident and can be built on in the future. Identify those principles rated as weaknesses or less evident and may need attention. The facilitator then led the participants in a facilitated group discussion. The findings shared with the group are captured in this section. The ideas are organized by functional components. As a cross-tabulation with compilation from the assessment tool findings, the mean and rank from that assessment, by principle, is also shown in this section. Which principles are strengths and strongly evident in Fort Atkinson and can be built on in the future? (Indicate Principle Number and Why) User-Friendly and Efficient Circulation a. Principle 8: Pedestrian and Bike Friendly Environments. o Take for granted; friends come to town to use o Mean: 4.14 Rank: 2 Preserved Natural and Cultural Resources and Environment b. Principle 10: Environmental Resources and Parks: Preserved and Consciously Integrated into the Fabric of the Community. o Very attractive; evident driving into town; activity in Parks, Concerts o Mean: 4.19 Rank: 1 c. Principle 10: Environmental Resources and Parks: Preserved and Consciously Integrated into the Fabric of the Community. o in Riverwalk, New shelter at Haumerson s Pond. o Mean: 4.19 Rank 1 d. Principle 11: Preserved Farmland and Related Open Space. o in extensive farmland and open space o Mean: 3.97 Rank 3 e. Principle 12: Preservation and Integration of Historic and Cultural Resources. o in Dairy Shrine, Fort; tied into identity; downtown nice o Mean: 3.84 Rank 4 2

5 Enhanced Local Identity and Sense of Place f. Principle 14: Well-designed Public Buildings and Public Spaces: Enlivened by Works of Art and Sculpture. o in Library, Municipal Building, bike trail art; historical homes preserved o Mean: 3.62 Rank 7 Attributes to Instinctively Draw Us To Places g. Principle 16: Drama and Dignity. o in Fireside, Hoard Museum, Library, Fort Atkinson Club, Aquatic Center o Mean: 3.57 Rank 8 h. Principle 18: Reflection of Local Values. o in Hoard Museum, Jones Park, Library, Fort Atkinson Club o Mean: 3.57 Rank: Rank 8 i. Principle 19: Many Choices and Many Things to Do. o Young families, many things to do, school events, sleigh rides, Christmas parade, farmers market o Mean: 3.43 Rank 11 3

6 Which principles are weaknesses and less evident and may need attention in the future? (Indicate Principle Number and Why) Effective and Functional Physical Configuration a. Principle 2: Strong Urban Center. o Mixed feelings on this. o Downtown activities attended by same. o Are we welcoming teens to City center? (Need sense of stewardship for our teens.) o Need to fill vacant storefronts o Need to develop west of the Bypass or Not develop west of bypass o Mean: 3.43 Rank: 11 b. Principle 2: Strong Urban Center. o How do we invite people to the City Center when people are already in City? (like when at high school events); consider where people are, and then how do we pull the in/off the By Pass/from school. o Mean: 3.43 Rank: 11 c. Principle 3: City-centered Redevelopment and Infill o Need to fill in abandoned areas (K-Mart/Business Park) o Bypass affecting downtown/changing economy of downtown business (look at successful communities how they attract traffic to downtown). o Mean: 3.03 Rank 18 d. Principle 4: Integration of Housing and Employment. o Downtown housing is limited; living above downtown business; help to make a culture center. o Mean: 3.19 Rank: 16 e. Principle 6: Avoidance of Low-density Residential Development on the Urban Fringe. o Avoid low density on fringe-spread growth is more costly for public services. (different perspectives on this) o Mean: 3.22 Rank: 15 f. Principle 7: A Mix of Housing Types and Households with Different Income Levels. o Mix of housing; needs for 20 s/younger folks o Mean: 3.70 Rank: 6 4

7 User-Friendly and Efficient Circulation g. Principle 8: Pedestrian and Bike Friendly Environments. o Not a lot of bike racks o Mean: 4.14 Rank: 2 h. Principle 9: High Quality and Convenient Public Transit and Transportation. o Weak on public transit o What do small towns do? o Problem with non-sensored arrows/downtown o Difficult to navigate downtown at 3:15 p.m. o Need more sidewalks; education/people in cars don t stop o Rural areas bike share see Wisconsin Rapids o Options: trolley /bus/other o Is there demand for transit in small towns? o Mean: 2.43 Rank: 19 Enhanced Local Identity and Sense of Place i. Principle 13: Strong Local Character, Community Identity and Sense of Place. o A strength and deficit: Have differences but need to come together. o Identity changing due to changing demographics (growing Hispanic population/not represented fully; do have some; changes with competing demands. o Mean: 3.50 Rank 10 Attributes to Instinctively Draw Us To Places j. Principle 19: Many Choices and Many Things to Do. o Vary based on demographics: weak for young professionals and young families; more needs beyond summer months (except bars); forces travel to Madison/Milwaukee; Ideas: mini whole foods o Mean: 3.43 Rank 11 Other Considerations Raised: o Bring people together to collectively plan together: Economic development/schools/hospital/matc (too many silos in our planning) o Economic Engine challenge this a bit. Culture and environment, land use is important for quality of life too; all trying to better the community. o Economics: needs to be brought in to discussion How do we make downtown a destination (including companies/business) o Hope to focus on things we can change. 5

8 Section 3 ASSESSMENT TOOL COMPILED FINDINGS This section provides the input received from the Community Assessment and Evaluation Activity tool/survey. This includes quantitative results that rate the extent to which each principle is evident. In addition, comments on each principle along with the last question for general comments and observations have been compiled. The results from the last question have been organized by theme and have been arranged by frequency. 1. FUNCTIONAL AREA I: EFFECTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL PHYSICAL CONFIGURATION # Question Not Barely Somewhat (3) (4) (1) (2) Principle 1: Compact Communities and Clear Urban/Rural Differentiation 1 Compact development that doesn't sprawl, enabling urban and rural areas to be clearly differentiated from one another. Principle 2: Strong Urban Center Urban places with a strong center (downtown), where multiple uses and activities are clustered in fairly close proximity (strong village and city centers). Principle 3: City-centered Redevelopment and Infill Infill development within existing urban areas and reclaiming marginal and abandoned areas. Principle 4: Integration of Housing and Employment Integration of housing, employment centers and shopping areas, so that communities contain places to live, work and shop, and contain a full range of facilities. Strongly (5) Total Responses Mean

9 5 6 7 Principle 5: Vital, Distinctive and Varied Neighborhoods Vital, distinctive and varied neighborhoods in close proximity to the community center. Principle 6: Avoidance of Low-Density Residential Development on the Urban Fringe Compact new development on the community edge that is integrated with the existing community pattern. Principle 7: A Mix of Housing Types and Households with Different Income Levels A mixture of housing types that meets the needs of a variety of households with different income levels

10 Statistic Principle 1: Compact Communities and Clear Urban/Rural Differentiation Compact development that doesn't sprawl, enabling urban and rural areas to be clearly differentiated from one another. Principle 2: Strong Urban Center Urban places with a strong center (downtown), where multiple uses and activities are clustered in fairly close proximity (strong village and city centers). Principle 3: City-centered Redevelopment and Infill Infill development within existing urban areas and reclaiming marginal and abandoned areas. Principle 4: Integration of Housing and Employment Integration of housing, employment centers and shopping areas, so that communities contain places to live, work and shop, and contain a full range of facilities. Principle 5: Vital, Distinctive and Varied Neighborhoods Vital, distinctive and varied neighborhoods in close proximity to the community center. Principle 6: Avoidance of Low-Density Residential Development on the Urban Fringe Compact new development on the community edge that is integrated with the existing community pattern. Principle 7: A Mix of Housing Types and Households with Different Income Levels A mixture of housing types that meets the needs of a variety of households with different income levels. Min Value Max Value Mean Variance Standard Deviation Total Responses

11 2. Comments on Functional Area I: Effective and Functional Physical Configuration Principle 1: Compact Communities and Clear Urban/Rural Differentiation Strengths: Strong natural and road boundaries. By-pass, Hoard Farm, Rivers Weaknesses: Less evident on south side; city-town boundary Sprawl contained by natural barriers, less so by ethic. Observations: Some attempts at containing growth - i.e. in industrial parks and within by-pass. Not sure how strongly this is embraced; however, or just result of regular development pressure. Currently OK but future expansion beyond bypass a true concern. Principle 2: Strong Urban Center Weaknesses: Need for better downtown outdoor draw for community gathering. Lacking on multiple uses of downtown. Downtown has ebbed and flowed; strength and vibrancy - very little basic needs - town clothing, shoes. Clear downtown - use is limited or not a destination Observations: Weekends are different than weekdays Not sure of "multi-use" aspect. Most especially cultural uses/activities in City Center We should find our most productive tax base from our core downtown. Unfortunate lack of city square is corrected by farm market, summer concerts. 9

12 Principle 3: City-Centered Redevelopment and Infill Weakness: Would be nice to see something in the old K-Mart building. Reclaiming old school and Verlo yes vacant K-Mart, vacant south business needed. Some large, empty properties (mostly privately owned and not for sale) Observations: I know this is always the first hope of our economic development efforts. This option is not sought much or appreciated by previous administration. Principle 4: Integration of Housing and Employment Strengths: New development of Creamery Building helps. Weaknesses: Not fully Lacking in the full range. Observations: I'd be interested to know what portion of Fort Atkinson residents work elsewhere. Downtown and concentric neighborhoods are great for this. Principle 5: Vital, Distinctive and Varied Neighborhoods Strengths: Varied housing within walking to downtown. Historic neighborhoods and "decades" neighborhoods in regard to when they were developed. Weaknesses: Limited neighborhoods with distinctiveness Observations: The more distinctive and varied the neighborhood, usually the closer it tends to be to commerce/central. Older housing stock. Principle 6: Avoidance of Low-Density Residential Development on Urban Fringe Weakness: 10

13 We have low productivity, large parking lot car-led glop. Observation: Trail/sidewalk connections slowly integrated to connect Principle 7: A Mix of Housing Types and Households with Different Income Levels Strengths: Nice mix currently but not a lot of opportunity for growth. Affordable housing, yes. Weaknesses: Need more rentals. Need more elderly housing. Could use more apartments for younger professionals, families. Observations: I would love to see co-housing units or buildings put up/built in Fort Atkinson. Homes or converted homes. No apartments or high density buildings. Statistic Value Total Responses 13 11

14 3. FUNCTIONAL AREA II: USER-FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT CIRCULATION # Question Not (1) Barely (2) 1 2 Statistic Principle 8: Pedestrian and Bike Friendly Environments Pedestrian friendly environments with a pattern of development that supports and encourages sidewalk pedestrian activity and bicycle path travel. Principle 9: High Quality and Convenient Public Transit and Transportation Transportation that is coordinated with land use and development, and provides multiple routes and approaches for cars, bikes, pedestrians and other modes. Somewhat (3) Principle 8: Pedestrian and Bike Friendly Environments Pedestrian friendly environments with a pattern of development that supports and encourages sidewalk pedestrian activity and bicycle path travel. (4) Strongly (5) Total Responses Mean Principle 9: High Quality and Convenient Public Transit and Transportation Transportation that is coordinated with land use and development, and provides multiple routes and approaches for cars, bikes, pedestrians and other modes. Min Value 2 1 Max Value 5 4 Mean Variance Standard Deviation Total Responses

15 4. Comments on Functional Area II: User-Friendly and Efficient Circulation Principle 8: Pedestrian and Bike Friendly Environments Strengths: This is great in Fort Atkinson. Bike trail, many sidewalks Bike path is one of our greatest features. Better closer to city center Love the bike path and lanes. Like the well-marked crossings. But, walking is a problem if you intend to shop/work. I appreciate the emphasis on bike access and new effort to promote walking and access to paddling. The bike paths are very nice. Weaknesses: Need more sidewalk; infill Room for improvement. Could improve or enforce pedestrian cross walks, especially downtown. Many areas connected; new subdivisions - no. Observations: Nice bike path and river walk but crossing Madison Ave., Janesville Ave., Whitewater Ave. is very difficult. Bike - yes; can't walk to or in newer developed areas Rural bike share in Wisconsin Rapids 13

16 Principle 9: High Quality and Convenient Public Transit and Transportation Strengths: Better closer to city center Some handicap services - glad for those. Weaknesses: No transit for those unable to bike or walk. Brown Cab is only public transit. Street repairs and maintenance a big concern. Better pedestrian in new areas. Only cab company. No bus, etc. Very inconvenient transportation downtown. Fort and the county need public trans - i.e. bus, rail, esp. Observations: Do we have any public transportation? Statistic Value Total Responses 15 14

17 5. FUNCTIONAL AREA III: PRESERVED NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT # Question Not Barely Somewhat Strongly (4) (1) (2) (3) (5) Principle 10: Environmental Resources and Parks: Preserved and Consciously Integrated into the Fabric of the Community Environmental resources, 1 natural amenities, scenic qualities, parks, recreation and open space that are preserved and are consciously integrated into the fabric of the community. Principle 11: Preserved Farmland and Related Open Space 2 Preserved farmland and related open space, wildlife habitats and environmental corridors reflecting responsibility for the respect of land. Principle 12: Historic and Cultural Resources Consciously Preserved and Integrated into 3 Contemporary Settings Historic and cultural resources consciously preserved and integrated into contemporary settings, including reuse of serviceable buildings. Statistic Principle 10: Environmental Resources and Parks: Preserved and Consciously Integrated into the Fabric of the Community Environmental resources, natural amenities, scenic qualities, parks, recreation and open space that are preserved and are consciously integrated into the fabric of the community. Total Responses Mean Principle 11: Preserved Farmland and Related Open Space Preserved farmland and related open space, wildlife habitats and environmental corridors reflecting responsibility for the respect of land. Principle 12: Historic and Cultural Resources Consciously Preserved and Integrated into Contemporary Settings Historic and cultural resources consciously preserved and integrated into contemporary settings, including reuse of serviceable buildings. Min Value Max Value Mean Variance Standard Deviation Total Responses

18 6. Comments on Functional Area III: Preserved Natural and Cultural Resources and Environment Principle 10: Environmental Resources and Parks: Strengths: Could use additional directional signage to highlight these assets. Many high quality parks, some neighborhood parks. Our parks definitely help define our community. Correct Parks, River walk, Correct planning for neighborhood spaces Parks, Riverwalk, Haumerson s Pond Our City parks are treasures. Could use more trees downtown and more native park plantings. Hard to get to any wildness. Observations: Parks are developed for use by public. Future development will need to be carefully planned. Principle 11: Preserved Farmland and Related Open Space Strengths: Greenway along Janesville Ave provides an excellent green corridor. Jones/Hoard properties. Weaknesses: Usually driven by wetlands making undesirable for development. We lose our share of farms to development. Fort could do a better job of controlling light trespass and pollution. 16

19 Principle 12: Historic and Cultural Resources Consciously Preserved and Integrated into Contemporary Settings Strengths: Creamery building, many older downtown buildings. Downtown buildings, old parks Hoard Museum is wonderful. Downtown buildings updated. Library/Fort Atkinson Com Center wonderful plusses. Redone fountain at Barrie very good example. Weaknesses: Our "culture" is changing - but doesn't always reflect our growing diverse population. Many pieces of historic architecture have been removed for parking lots. New construction tends to be hodgepodge, generic and car-centric. Observations: Verlo, Library, Museum, Churches, downtown heavily preserved. Lack of contemporary settings, very heavy on blending/preservation/conservative design. Statistic Value Total Responses 10 17

20 7. FUNCTIONAL AREA IV: ENHANCED LOCAL IDENTITY AND SENSE OF PLACE # Question Not Barely Somewhat (3) (1) (2) Principle 13: Strong Local Character, Community Identity and A Sense of Place 1 Strong local character, community identity and sense of place reflecting the character and needs of the community. Principle 14: Well-Designed Public Buildings and Public Spaces Enlivened by Works of Art and Sculpture 2 Well-designed public buildings and public spaces that strengthen community sense of place, often reinforced and enlivened by works of art and sculpture. Statistic (4) Strongly (5) Total Responses Mean Principle 13: Strong Local Character, Community Identity and A Sense of Place Strong local character, community identity and sense of place reflecting the character and needs of the community. Principle 14: Well-Designed Public Buildings and Public Spaces Enlivened by Works of Art and Sculpture Well-designed public buildings and public spaces that strengthen community sense of place, often reinforced and enlivened by works of art and sculpture. Min Value 2 1 Max Value 5 5 Mean Variance Standard Deviation Total Responses

21 8. Comments on Functional Area IV: Enhanced Local Identity and Sense of Place Principle 13: Strong Local Character, Community Identity and A Sense of Place Strengths: Ties to Fort, River in signage and promotion and appearance evident. Bridge, main street, etc. Observations This is changing with baby-boom generation Principle 14: Well-Designed Public Buildings and Public Spaces Enlivened by Works of Art and Sculpture Strengths: Continues to improve Lots of public art and strong arts community - bike trail, sculptures downtown, art within buildings (library, museum, hospital). Jones Park sculptures, McCoy Park Memorial. Plenty of art, preserved buildings and homes Library, Museum, historical homes Love the catfish! Love the Blackhawk Statues! Library, use of parks for special events, new community center (club) Weaknesses: Are in some areas, but most public buildings are "blah". Statistic Value Total Responses 8 19

22 9. FUNCTIONAL AREA V: ATTRIBUTES THAT INSTINCTIVELY DRAW US TO PLACES # Question Not Barely Somewhat (3) (1) (2) Principle 15: Connectivity 1 Vehicular, pedestrian and transit connectivity and ease of movement from one part of the community to another. Principle 16: Drama and Dignity: Real Places Landmarks 2 and building facades providing evidence that it is a real place, not just superficial. Principle 17: Variety and Whimsy 3 Variety and whimsy expressed in architectural forms and design details. Principle 18: Reflection of Local Values 4 Reflection of local values; appropriate architectural styles, materials and vegetation. Principle 19: Many Choices and Many Things to Do with Sociable Settings 5 Many choices and many things to do with sociable settings; not just consumerism and shopping; not just a workplace or a bedroom community. (4) Strongly (5) Total Responses Mean

23 Statistic Principle 15: Connectivity Vehicular, pedestrian and transit connectivity and ease of movement from one part of the community to another. Principle 16: Drama and Dignity: Real Places Landmarks and building facades providing evidence that it is a real place, not just superficial. Principle 17: Variety and Whimsy Variety and whimsy expressed in architectural forms and design details. Principle 18: Reflection of Local Values Reflection of local values; appropriate architectural styles, materials and vegetation. Principle 19: Many Choices and Many Things to Do with Sociable Settings Many choices and many things to do with sociable settings; not just consumerism and shopping; not just a workplace or a bedroom community. Min Value Max Value Mean Variance Standard Deviation Total Responses

24 10. Comments on Functional Area V: Attributes that Instinctively Draw Us to Places Principle 15: Connectivity Strengths: Downtown area is a yes. 4 for vehicular Connectivity - good start, will improve as bike lanes are added. Weaknesses: New subdivisions lacking in connectivity by trail and sidewalks. Community segments are very segregated. Better, but Madison Ave, Janesville Ave, Whitewater Ave. are very difficult to cross. 2 for pedestrian. Walking not easy downtown or in any commercial area. Principle 16: Drama and Dignity: Real Places Strengths: Fireside, Library, Hoard Museum. Fireside, Library, Fort Club, Creamery Building, Farmer's Market, Parks, Jones Park, Riverside Park, museum, downtown, Riverwalk. Downtown and neighborhoods good Library, Museum, Fireside, Fort Club. Bridge & Verlo Building. Weaknesses: Newer edge developments no. Observations: Some significant skyline but water tower and parks located on major roads; help add drama to busy areas/roadways. 22

25 Principle 17: Variety and Whimsy Strengths: Most evident downtown in former High Pointe properties. Again, more in city center. Weaknesses: Limited in whimsy; more historic and conservative. Some variety, little whimsy. Principle 18: Reflection of Local Values Strengths: City is heavily planted with TREES, business and homes landscape appropriately. Midwest, conservative. Museum, Library, Jones Park Pubic appreciation of keeping/preserving farmland, open space. Principle 19: Many Choices and Many Things to Do with Sociable Settings Strengths: Many cultural activities, farmer's market, Generals baseball, etc. Museum, Library, Fort Club, Soulful Toad, Municipal Building, Parks - Jones Park, Barrie Park, Haumerson s Pond Good recreation and events Great parks systems that offer variety of events. Community supporting events that bring residents together. Weaknesses: We do not have gathering spots for young professionals - other than bars. Central District lacks a green meeting location for community but many choices in other areas of the City. Very much where Fort is lacking. Statistic Value Total Responses 11 23

26 11. General Comments and/or Observations. Please provide any additional comments or observations regarding what is important to you as we further consider the principles of placemaking, Fort Atkinson's future and ways to improve our community! Collaboration/Work Together/Plan/Education: Growth is necessary and should be planned for strategically. The City needs to become more united - many silos that work hard but independently from each other. Hospital, School district, Business, and City need to work together and be considered equally as important influences on success of a community. Stronger engagement by youth/buy in. Fort Atkinson has a strong sense of who it is as a community based off of its history and recent past (within last 30 years to 50 years). We need to decide as a community where do we want to be in years and how do we plan to get there. More Community Partnerships- internal and external: Whoever has the most partnerships wins. We have a start. Businesses and not-for-profit groups work together but there could be more over-arching cooperation. That would include a more proactive approach to identified projects in Fort Atkinson. Has Fort Atkinson considered being a part of the Main Street program? Build partnerships with Jefferson, UW Whitewater and MATC. I don't get the feeling that MATC pays that much attention to Fort Atkinson. They should. I hope I am wrong about this. Community Conversations - Engage citizens, parents and on-going research into successful models from other communities. We are beginning to do this now. One specific example is to insure that the tradition of a daily newspaper be continued. Find additional ways for the city to use that more effectively. Encourage more informed city administration and staff. Assess how the city keeps up to date on new trends and opportunities. What newspapers and periodicals do they read and what conferences, meetings and associations do they attend on behalf of our city? This will help us with the next item. Insure our Planning, Zoning and City Council members are provided the most pertinent information regarding issues that come before them. Land use issues are layered and complicated. Sometimes they can be emotional. Transparency and even more important, the perception of transparency, is critical. Insure that the City Council remains apolitical. Provide on orientation for new Council and Committee members. 24

27 Economic Development/Business: No discussion of industries role. No discussion of bring in quality jobs. Appears to be mostly a discussion of a bedroom community. More popular business names and stores here in town may better the community such as a Starbucks which pose as a hub to hang out and socialize and also as a thriving business which would better the community. I'm a little concerned that this initial assessment has not addressed schools, healthcare, manufacturing and the core job/growth needs of an economically strong community. Fort needs an injection of investment dollars. Unfortunately, many of the buildings that could have been repurposed were torn down. New buildings (with character) will have to be erected. We so hungry for economic development, vigilance and again, pro-active, not reactive, thinking about our future will be important. Find additional revenue streams for the city. Revenue for road maintenance is a good start. More informed city staff will contribute additional ideas. A bakery. Not just for the goods but for building community traditions. This happens at bakeries with a seating area. Lake Mills Waterhouse Bakery is a great model. Also, watch the PBS show "A Few Good Bakeries" available for streaming for free at PBS.org. They facilitate community engagement and tradition. A real delicatessen. We need a deli that makes creates real, fresh food. Currently the delicatessen's at the grocery stores are all about opening a can or a jar and putting it in a display case. Processed food is not real food. Housing/Residential: I have found that persons (my family) wanting a single family home/neighborhood has the value lowered by nearby mutli-family housing. I wish Fort Atkinson has a development outside the city center that was just single family housing with 1/2-1 acre lots. It would attract many more families like mine. Additional residential lots of various sizes. Develop a new neighborhood on that property that includes community co-housing and small affordable housing units. The whole housing trend is downsizing. This will also help city revenues. Rental Owners, residence and business need to pay more attention to property appearance and maintenance. Jordan Apartments on Main Street next to the Chamber is just one example of this. And, because it is so prominent, it is a terrible eyesore to our downtown. Identity: I have traveled extensively, so I'm a tough grader. Fort Atkinson has improved steadily since 1985 and is continuing in the right direction. Fort has a unique identity and seems willing to both preserve its heritage and adopt to changes and paradigm shifts. Overall, Fort has done a great job preserving its heritage. It has always, eventually found ways to recycle its buildings to redevelopment 25

28 Parks/Recreation/Natural Resources: We have an Aquatic Center and Tennis Courts, volleyball, the pool, a basketball court in the municipal building and by the Aquatic Center. I feel we need something for kids and adults that skateboard, BMX, scooter, etc. where kids and adults have a fun place to use these items, like a Skate Park because if I for example want to scoot I have to go to Jefferson or Whitewater as the nearest places that have Skate Parks. I want to see a local park here in Fort Atkinson. Contribute to a clearer and cleaner river. I would like to be able to see the bottom of the shallow Rock River. The river runs through the center of our town. It is one of our assets. Somehow, agricultural runoff needs to be addressed. It is currently exempt from water quality laws and is a big contributor to the ill-health of the river. Transportation: Principle 9 - I think a public transportation system between cities could bring progress to our communities. Public Trans - Fort should consider bike share - see Wisconsin Rapids example Fort has great "bones" but needs to reinforce and better utilize them, especially on the edge of town. Extend the bike trail using the soon to be abandoned Lorman scrap yard tracks. Urban Center/Downtown: I agree with downtown vitalization; however, I'm concerned about feasibility with traffic/parking and flow. Diversity of commerce in urban center. Parking. Both would draw people to urban center. Downtown revitalization will continue to be important. Why is industry not mentioned? How do we attract quality employees and retain them? Mixed Use: More cultural happenings around the river. Sidewalks and walkable neighborhoods in new developments. More revitalization of existing buildings. New ventures of mixed use (i.e. K-Mart area!). I'd like to see more diversity, more integration of living/work/shopping, more choices of things to do. Culture: Build a Cultural Corridor as a Regional Destination. Starting at the museum, Merchants Avenue to the library, one block east, across the vacant lot (green space) to the Fort Atkinson Club. This is not my idea but I support it. Land Marks/Entry: We need to redesign/rebuild our City entry points - North side old K-Mart for example. Not a good impression for people coming in to town. Younger Generation/Activity: I feel we are very strong in many aspects; however, we have very few opportunities to entertain younger generations (teens-20's). 26

29 Statistic Value Total Responses 25 27

30 Appendix 28

31 Fort Atkinson Community Placemaking Initiative AGENDA Thursday, December 3, 2015 Luther School Board Room 6:00 pm 8:00 pm Welcome and Background: Council President Paul Kotz and City Manager Matt Trebatoski Additional Context: Steve Grabow, UW Extension Workshop Objectives o To raise community awareness around principles of community placemaking o To assess the extent to which principles of placemaking are evident in Fort Atkinson. (All should have a copy of the Community Assessment and Evaluation Activity tool) o To initiate broad community dialogue around placemaking. Presentation: Principles of Community Placemaking Assessment Exercise o Fill out survey/tool (10 minutes) o Discuss with neighbor (10 minutes with person next to you) Identify those principles that you have rated as strengths. (5-Strongly ) Identify those principles rated as weaknesses. (1, 2 or 3- Less ) o Facilitated Group Discussion Which principles are strongly evident in Fort Atkinson and can be built on in the future? (Indicate Principle Number and Why) Which principles are less evident and may need attention in the future? (Indicate Principle Number and Why) Wrap Up and Next Steps (Steering Committee) o Drop off your completed Assessment survey form in back as your leave! Fort Atkinson Community Placemaking Initiative Website: Prepared By: Steve Grabow, Professor and Community Development Educator, UW Extension, Jefferson County Office, November 30,

32 Community Assessment and Evaluation Activity Background on This Assessment Tool: The UW Extension, Jefferson County Office is working with Fort Atkinson on a five-month community placemaking* initiative. A wide variety of placemaking resources have been developed by UW Extension, and are being shared with those interested in being involved. (The City has developed a website with these resources to help familiarize you with placemaking concepts and this project---see link**.) As part of the process, an assessment/evaluation survey has been developed, and you are invited to share your perspectives and reactions. Purpose and Use of This Assessment Tool: The main purpose of this assessment tool is to get your initial reaction on the extent to which 19 principles of placemaking are evident in Fort Atkinson. The results of this assessment will inform the community about the perceived level to which Fort Atkinson is performing on each of these principles or characteristics. It is hoped that your input will stimulate community energy around areas that are seen as strengths (so that we can build on our assets and successes). Your input will also be used to provide more clarity on potential areas to address for those principles that are rated low (so that we can respond to suggested weaknesses or areas needing attention). Instructions: Review each item. Place a mark (an X or fill in the circle) that best represents your opinion about the extent to which each of these 19 principles of placemaking is evident in Fort Atkinson. If you wish, add an additional commentary or observations that you have about each principle. A wrap-up comment section is provided at the end of the tool. If you have any questions, please contact Steve Grabow at UW Extension (steve.grabow@ces.uwex.edu or ) or Kim Buchholz at UW Extension (kimb@jeffersoncountywi.gov or ). Thank you for caring about your community! Important Note: This survey is asking only for your opinions and perspectives. You do not need to be an expert on placemaking to respond to this assessment. Your input enables initial impressions on your views about your community. There is no right or wrong response! In many ways, this is just a starting point for community dialogue around placemaking. *Definition of Placemaking: Relates to planning endeavors focused on spatial development, urban design and city form, public realm, streetscapes and related infrastructure and the general imaging and re-imaging of places. (Szold, 2000) **Community Placemaking Initiative Website: 30

33 For each of the following principles below, rate the extent to which you believe the principle is evident in Fort Atkinson. Not (1) Barely (2) Somewhat (3) (4) Strongly (5) FUNCTIONAL AREA I: EFFECTIVE AND FUNCTIONAL PHYSICAL CONFIGURATION Principle 1: Compact Communities and Clear Urban/Rural Differentiation Compact development that doesn t sprawl, enabling urban and rural areas to be clearly differentiated from one another. Comments: Principle 2: Strong Urban Center Urban places with a strong center (downtown), where multiple uses and activities are clustered in fairly close proximity (strong village and city centers). Comments: Principle 3: City-centered Redevelopment and Infill Infill development within existing urban areas and reclaiming marginal and abandoned areas. Comments: Principle 4: Integration of Housing and Employment Integration of housing, employment centers and shopping areas, so that communities contain places to live, work and shop, and contain a full range of facilities. Comments: Principle 5: Vital, Distinctive and Varied Neighborhoods Vital, distinctive and varied neighborhoods in close proximity to the community center. Comments: 31

34 FUNCTIONAL AREA I: Continued Principle 6: Avoidance of Low-Density Residential Development on the Urban Fringe Compact new development on the community edge that is integrated with the existing community pattern. Comments: Principle 7: A Mix of Housing Types and Households with Different Income Levels A mixture of housing types that meets the needs of a variety of households with different income levels. Comments: Not (1) Barely (2) Somewhat (3) (4) Strongly (5) FUNCTIONAL AREA II: USER-FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT CIRCULATION Principle 8: Pedestrian and Bike Friendly Environments Pedestrian friendly environments with a pattern of development that supports and encourages sidewalk pedestrian activity and bicycle path travel. Comments: Principle 9: High Quality and Convenient Public Transit and Transportation Transportation that is coordinated with land use and development, and provides multiple routes and approaches for cars, bikes, pedestrians and other modes. Comments: 32

35 Not (1) Barely (2) Somewhat (3) (4) FUNCTIONAL AREA III: PRESERVED NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT Principle 10: Environmental Resources and Parks: Preserved and Consciously Integrated into the Fabric of the Community Environmental resources, natural amenities, scenic qualities, parks, recreation and open space that are preserved and are consciously integrated into the fabric of the community. Comments: Principle 11: Preserved Farmland and Related Open Space Preserved farmland and related open space, wildlife habitats and environmental corridors reflecting responsibility for the respect for land. Comments: Principle 12: Historic and Cultural Resources Consciously Preserved and Integrated into Contemporary Settings Historic and cultural resources consciously preserved and integrated into contemporary settings, including reuse of serviceable buildings. Comments: Strongly (5) 33

36 Not (1) Barely (2) Somewhat (3) (4) FUNCTIONAL AREA IV: ENHANCED LOCAL IDENTITY AND SENSE OF PLACE Principle 13: Strong Local Character, Community Identify and A Sense of Place Strong local character, community identity and a sense of place reflecting the character and needs of the community. Comments: Principle 14: Well-Designed Public Buildings and Public Spaces Enlivened by Works of Art and Sculpture Well-designed public buildings and public spaces that strengthen community sense of place, often reinforced and enlivened by works of art and sculpture. Comments: Strongly (5) FUNCTIONAL AREA V: ATTRIBUTES THAT INSTINCTIVELY DRAW US TO PLACES Principle 15: Connectivity Vehicular, pedestrian and transit connectivity and ease of movement from one part of the community to another. Comments: Principle 16: Drama and Dignity: Real Places Landmarks and building façades providing evidence that it is a real place, not just superficial. Comments: 34

37 FUNCTIONAL AREA V: Continued Principle 17: Variety and Whimsy Variety and whimsy expressed in architectural forms and design details. Comments: Not (1) Barely (2) Somewhat (3) (4) Strongly (5) Principle 18: Reflection of Local Values Reflection of local values; appropriate architectural styles, materials and vegetation. Comments: Principle 19: Many Choices and Many Things to Do with Sociable Settings Many choices and many things to do with sociable settings; not just consumerism and shopping; not just a workplace or a bedroom community. Comments: General Comments and or Observations. Please provide any additional comments or observations regarding what is important to you as we further consider the principles of placemaking, Fort Atkinson s future and ways to improve our community! 35

38 1/8/2016 Principles of Community Placemaking & Making Places Special Fort Atkinson Community Placemaking Initiative By Steve Grabow Professor and Community Development Educator UW-Extension, Jefferson County Context for Principles The guiding principles in this presentation were inspired by a book entitled Making Places Special by former UW- Extension Specialist Gene Bunnell. Bunnell s research provides the outline for the Characteristics of Quality Places. His research includes the results of an American Planning Association survey of planners that identified the qualities of special places. A similar survey of Wisconsin planners was conducted in 1998 and These resources have been organized and adapted by Steve Grabow. See Principles and Practice of Community Placemaking for more details. (Draft, May 2015) 1

39 1/8/2016 Intent This presentation is intended to provide a basic understanding of key principles of community design for the citizenry and community leaders involved in planning and development. Steve and his daughter researching sustainable and strategic spatial planning in European communities Functional Area I Effective and Functional Physical Configuration 2

40 1/8/2016 Principle 1: Compact Communities and Clear Urban/Rural Differentiation Compact development that doesn t sprawl, enabling urban and rural areas to be clearly differentiated from one another. Compact development on the north side of Fort Atkinson illustrating the city from the countryside A clear distinction between the city and the countryside City of Jefferson urban service area Principle 2: Strong Urban Center Urban places with a strong center, where multiple uses and activities are clustered in fairly close proximity (strong village and city centers). Downtown Asheville, NC offers multiple uses and activities within close proximity of eachother Baltimore s Inner Harbor bustles at night with its vibrant nightlife which has helped blossom the area into the cultural center of the city A model city centered around a central gathering place 3

41 1/8/2016 Principle 3: City-centered Redevelopment and Infill City Centered Redevelopment and Infill. La Crosse riverside redevelopment plans Infill riverfront condominiums in Fort Atkinson Hard Rock Cafe at Baltimore s redeveloped Inner Harbor Cottage Grove, WI now boasts a revitalized downtown anchored by a large redevelopment project Principle 4: Integration of Housing and Employment Integration of housing, employment centers and shopping areas, so that communities contain places to live, work and shop, and a full range of facilities. Meadowmont neighborhood in Chapel Hill, NC offers shops and businesses with residential upstairs This multi-use development in Chapel Hill, NC typifies the modern live, work, play setting Apartment housing integrated into the fabric in La Crosse on the upper levels of historic Main Street, with shops on the street level 4

42 1/8/2016 Principle 5: Vital, Distinctive and Varied Neighborhoods Vital, distinctive and varied neighborhoods in close proximity to the urban center. A model city showing a distinctive architectural style reflected in the town center and adjacent residential areas Distinctive small town front porch neighborhoods near downtown. Principle 6: Avoidance of Low-density Residential Development on the Urban Fringe Avoidance of low-density residential development on the community fringe. Middleton Hills, WI has higher density residential development on the fringe of the community City of La Crosse s land use plan calls for dense growth surrounded by greenspace on the urban fringe A mix of residential housing types of moderate density with a definite edge in Fort Atkinson 5

43 1/8/2016 Principle 7: A Mix of Housing Types and Households with Different Income Levels A mixture of housing types that meets the needs of a variety of households with different income levels. Co-housing at Pacifica in Carrboro, North Carolina A classic house tastefully converted to student rentals at UW-Whitewater A range of housing types to accommodate a variety of income levels Functional Area II User Friendly and Efficient Circulation 6

44 1/8/2016 Principle 8: Pedestrian and Bike Friendly Environments Pedestrian friendly environments (pattern of development that supports and encourages sidewalk pedestrian activity and bicycle path travel). City of Wisconsin Dells bicycle and pedestrian paths and trails Fort Atkinson riverwalk Glacial River Trail in Fort Atkinson Milwaukee s Lakeshore State Park accomodates bikers and pedestrians Principle 9: High Quality and Convenient Public Transit and Transportation High quality and convenient public transit coordinated with land use and development, and concentrated development along transit corridors and proximity to transit stops. The Intermodal Station in Milwaukee, WI connects travelers through bus, bicycle, and train transportation Multiple routes for cars, bikes & pedestrians defined by colored areas at Harbor Park in Kenosha A wide variety of modes of transportation allow for smooth metropolitan movement in Madison, WI 7

45 1/8/2016 Functional Area III Preserve Natural, Cultural Resources and Environment Principle 10: Environmental Resources and Parks: Preserved and Consciously Integrated into the Fabric of the Community Environmental resources, natural amenities, scenic qualities, parks, recreation and open space that are preserved and are consciously integrated into the fabric of the community. Cravath Lake Park, Whitewater Riverwalk plan, Wisconsin Dells Milwaukee s O Donnell Park offers a green corridor along the lakefront 8

46 1/8/2016 Principle 11: Preserved Farmland and Related Open Space Preserved farmland and related open space, wildlife habitat and environmental corridors. Wisconsin s largest egg farm (near Palmyra in Jefferson County) relies on preserved, working farmlands A preserved farm in the rolling countryside near Lake Mills, WI La Crosse s Riverside Park connects the natural waterway with planned public space Principle 12: Preservation and Integration of Historic and Cultural Resources Historic and cultural resources consciously preserved and integrated into contemporary settings. Before and after photos of Sheboygan s riverfront boardwalk and fishing shanty revitalization Celebrating our dairy heritage and cheese-making tradition in an authentic setting in La Crosse 9

47 1/8/2016 Functional Area IV Enhanced Local Identity and Sense of Place Principle 13: Strong Local Character, Community Identity and Sense of Place Strong local character, community identity and a sense of place. Miller Brewing Company continues the beer brewing tradition that Milwaukee is known for Locally produced sculpture honors the Native American history of Fort Atkinson 10

48 1/8/2016 Principle 14: Well-designed Public Buildings and Public Spaces: Enlivened by Works of Art and Sculpture Well-designed public buildings and public spaces that strengthen community sense of place, often reinforced and enlivened by works of art and sculpture. Locally designed Cravath Lake Park entrance, Whitewater, reflects what is important to the community Art and sculpture at the Fort Atkinson Municipal Building Birge Fountain and Arts Center, Whitewater Functional Area V Attributes to Instinctively Draw Us to Places 11

49 1/8/2016 Key Attributes of Places to Which we are Instinctively Drawn Urban designers and planners have identified five key attributes which help us conceptualize the intangible characteristics of quality places. These attributes are summarized below and they are detailed in principles 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19. Connectivity Drama and Dignity Variety and Whimsy Reflection of Local Values Many Choices and Many Things to Do Principle 15: Connectivity Vehicular, pedestrian and transit connectivity and ease of movement from one part of the community to another. Bike and pedestrian trails provide a connection to the Mississippi River in La Crosse Signage in Lake Mills, WI guides vehicular traffic and pedestrians to destinations within the city 12

50 1/8/2016 Principle 16: Drama and Dignity Landmarks and building facades providing evidence that it is a real place, not just superficial. The dramatic approach to Madison, WI, the state capitol building and Monona Terrace The first architectural Washington Monument dominates the center of this Baltimore neighborhood Principle 17: Variety and Whimsy Expressed in architectural forms and design details. The Pineapple Fountain reflects the friendly hospitality of the people of Charleston, SC The Milwaukee Art Museum s Burke Brise Soleil is a moveable, wing-like sunscreen along Lake Michigan Catfish Alley, Fort Atkinson 13

51 1/8/2016 Principle 18: Reflection of Local Values Appropriate architectural styles, materials and vegetation. Rock River Bridge in Fort Atkinson, Photo: Gary Gramley Mullen s Dairy Bar mural in Watertown, WI reflects the small town and agricultural values of Jefferson County The glacial fieldstone wall at Riverside Park in Watertown, WI uses the natural, local stone Principle 19: Many Choices and Many Things To Do Not just consumerism and shopping; not just a workplace or a bedroom community. Sidewalk events bring people to downtown Fort Atkinson Enjoying the natural scenery at the downtown Jefferson dam Multiple seating options and for a variety of uses at this Asheville park setting 14